Modular Conveyor Frame for Rapid Mine Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional conveyor apparatuses in mining operations face limitations in flexibility and ease of operation for extending and retracting in conjunction with continuous miners, particularly in low vertical seam height mines, where they must handle heavier loads and withstand harsh environments, and existing solutions compromise on flexibility and mobility.
Innovation Solution
A rigid framed conveyor apparatus with a holding frame capable of rapid and efficient extension and retraction, using press-fit rails and a top slider insert, allowing for manual assembly and disassembly, and featuring a Quick Pull mechanism for easy repositioning and maintenance, which reduces conveyor drive motor requirements and supports heavier equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional conveyor apparatus is used in mining operations, then continuous haulage of mined material is achieved, but flexibility and ease of operation for extension and retraction are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor apparatus is divided into modular frame sections that can be independently assembled, extended, and retracted. Each frame section contains standardized components including rails, sliders, and support structures that can be quickly connected and disconnected, enabling flexible adaptation to different mine configurations while maintaining ease of operation through standardized interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system incorporates movable and adjustable components including extendable frame sections, adjustable rails, and reconfigurable support structures. These dynamic elements allow the conveyor to adapt its length and configuration as the mine face advances or retreats, providing both flexibility and operational ease through mechanical adjustability rather than fixed rigid structures
2Reliability
If conveyor apparatus is designed for heavy loads and harsh environments, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyor apparatus utilizes materials and structural parameters specifically optimized for heavy-load mining environments. Frame members are designed with appropriate cross-sectional dimensions and material properties to withstand harsh conditions, while standardized parameter sets across components maintain reliability without requiring complex custom designs for each part
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system employs composite construction combining high-strength metals for structural components with耐磨 materials for contact surfaces. This composite approach provides the necessary reliability for heavy loads and harsh mining environments while avoiding excessive complexity by using established material combinations rather than complex structural configurations
3Productivity
If rapid extension and retraction capability is provided, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rapid extension and retraction capability is achieved through segmented modular frames with standardized connection interfaces. Each module is manufactured to standard tolerances rather than high precision, but the cumulative assembly achieves the required precision through consistent interface design, enabling rapid deployment while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The conveyor system incorporates self-aligning and self-adjusting features in its modular connections. The standardized interfaces include built-in alignment mechanisms and tolerance compensation features that automatically ensure proper positioning during assembly, reducing the need for high manufacturing precision while enabling rapid extension and retraction operations
Data Source
AI summary
Conveyor apparatus and method are disclosed for continuous haulage of coal or ore in an underground mine, including a plurality of floor-supported frame members held in position by belt tension and further held in position optionally by bolts or pins. The novel holding frame provides rapid and efficient extendable, retractable construction in the mine. The novel continuous haulage system handles larger and heavier pieces of equipment and can be pulled to a different position in an underground mine as a complete unit.